Episode 24: Strategic Growth
07/01/2022 / Dealer Insider
Ryan LaFontaine, the owner of LaFontaine Cadillac Buick GMC outside Detroit, knows that investing in relationships is crucial for business growth. And his relationship with GMF, which started in 2015 when he came on board as a floorplan dealer, has become an integral part of his strategy for growing and getting better.
Ryan shares some ways GMF supports his team:
- Achieving goals
Ryan’s “real conversations” with GMF over the years have developed trust and given Ryan confidence to bring additional dealerships on board with GMF.
“I can see you care that we succeed,” he says. “You cared about my family and my employees because the decisions weren’t just based on a financial standpoint or a rate standpoint but how can we help each other grow?” - Adapting to change
Ryan sees GMF‘s willingness to adjust dealer programs based on the current environment as a benefit to his business.
“You saw that need for used cars, not just today, you saw it two years ago. And you came up with programs for used cars and programs for new cars, and I love the collaboration and the proactive approach.” - Customized solutions
There are always challenges to overcome with a buy-sell, but GMF’s personalized approach and knowledge of Ryan’s business led to a successful outcome.
“One of the stores we bought didn’t sell many used cars. But my business model only works on being able to sell used cars. GMF could have said, ‘We’re going to do this deal based on the turn rate of that dealership’, which you typically do. Instead, you understood my business model and looked outside the box to solve that for us.”
Talk with your Rep about how GMF can help support your dealership’s growth.
Episode 39: Jack Weidinger
Jack Weidinger, President of North Bay Cadillac and Cadillac Dealer Co-Chair, is all in on Cadillac. With the Escalade IQ coming in 2025, plus dozens of EVs across GM’s portfolio, Jack’s position as a top Cadillac dealer adviser means he’s laser-focused on GMF and Cadillac Financial supporting a growing EV lineup that he and many others have invested heavily in. For Jack, that means doubling down on lease.
Watch Jack's Story
Episode 38: Engaging With Dealer Feedback
As the only captive to utilize the NADA Dealer Survey, it’s GMF’s mission to listen to dealer feedback. Owners and general managers receive the survey from "NADA Chairman" quarterly and, unlike similar surveys, ours only takes about four minutes to complete. This issue of Dealer Insider features three perspectives about how we use the results to help dealers navigate changing market conditions.
Watch NADA Story